HazelDiary

Food | Travel | Lifestyle

Author: Hazel

The Best Times to Visit Singapore (and what to do)

So, you’ve decided to join the millions of people who flock to Singapore each year. And why not? Singapore has become one of the most in-demand tourist destinations in the last few years and has been immortalized on social media and even on the screen.

Read more: The Best Times to Visit Singapore (and what to do)

But with all of this, the question is, when exactly do you want to visit Singapore? After all, the country is accessible year-round, but one time might be better than others. Here is what you can get up to during each season in Singapore.

Traveling during the winter season, especially around December, means that you can enjoy the magic that is Christmas in Singapore. The country has always been one for light displays, decorations in public spaces, and much more, so you’ll definitely enjoy the ginormous Christmas trees, fireworks displays, Christmas songs, and much more. Many have described Christmas in Singapore as an amazing time, so you definitely would want to see this. 

It’s also worth noting that temperatures in Singapore during the winter are between 28 and 30°C, which makes them a palatable range. At the same time, the country experiences much more rainfall during these months, and this might be an issue if you are a fan of outdoor activities. 

The good news is that there are a ton of indoor activities that you can enjoy, such as gaming. Singapore has in-person gambling establishments in places like Sentosa Island, but you can also benefit from online gaming. If you’re looking to play online gambling games, this can be easily done in Singapore by turning to the myriad of sites available. This will have you playing classic casino games, as well as modern offerings, with ease. If you’re a fan of casino games, you should definitely prep to do this. 

Another option would be indoor cinema options, of which there are many within Singapore. The country also has tons of restaurants, shopping centers, and much more that can keep you indoors for hours on end, even as it rains outside. However, if you are especially averse to rain or have any medical issues, this may not be the best time.

Another time that you can visit Singapore is during the spring, between February and May. The important thing to note is that this is before the summer, which is when tourism is at its peak. If you’re someone who wants to avoid a mad tourist rush, this would be a good idea for you. The weather is drier than the winter season, meaning you won’t have to deal with as much rain, though there might be thunderstorms. 

At the same time, Singapore has many exciting cultural events you might not want to miss. Chinese New Year, for example, will fall around that time, and will see fireworks displays, street parades, and tons of adventures specifically within Chinatown. Chinatown is already an amazing place to go to take in Chinese culture, but it is especially exciting during the spring months. Singapore Fashion Week is usually held in January or February, and if you love fashion shows, it’ll be a great event to attend. There’s also the Dragon Boat Festival happening around me, which has been known to attract tourists.

The summers are, perhaps, the most popular time to visit Singapore. This comes with its pros and cons. On the one hand, there’ll be tons of shopping, including the Great Singapore Sale, which will see tons of amazing items of all types sold at a bargain. If shopping is your primary reason to go, the summer months are probably for you. It also has very intense weather, between 30 and 34°C. For some, this makes it a perfect time to go sunbathing and enjoy outdoor activities, such as visiting the zoo, Sentosa Island, music, festivals, and much more. 

For others, this level of heat is too much, and they would rather skip it. So, it depends on what your specific needs are. Another thing to consider is that summer is perhaps the most expensive time to book a trip to Singapore. From the flights to the hotels, to even local activities, you’ll be paying more than you would at other times of the year, so keep this in mind. Summer also means more tourists, and for those who really want to socialize, it’s the best time to meet other people.

Going to Singapore right after the summer can be a pro or con, depending on your needs. While it is not as hot as summer, you usually start to see the beginning of the rain for the year, which might be inconvenient for some visitors. If you’re a fan of racing, you might want to attend the Formula 1 Singapore Grand Prix, which is a big crowd-pleaser. 

Because the summer traffic will be waning at that point, you can get hotels, flights, and other expenses cheaper, so it’s probably a good time if you are going on a budget. There are also cultural events like the lantern festival, as well as low-key celebrations happening throughout the country. Overall, anyone looking to have a more low-key decision to Singapore might appreciate the autumn ones.

Conclusion

Singapore is definitely an amazing place to visit, but the experience you have depends on when you go. The summer months offer more excitement, but more heat and more expenses. Autumn means a bit more rain and less to do, winter means more rain but an amazing Christmas celebration, and spring means tons of events. Ultimately, you have to consider all of these and decide which is most important and goes, so you get the best time.

Follow me on Facebook | Instagram | Tiktok | Telegram for insta updates

[SG EATS] Welcoming the Year of Prosperity at Cherry Garden by Chef Fei, Mandarin Oriental, Singapore

[SG EATS] Welcoming the Year of Prosperity at Cherry Garden by Chef Fei, Mandarin Oriental, Singapore

Chinese New Year 2026 marks a significant chapter for Cherry Garden by Chef Fei. Its first Lunar New Year celebration since unveiling its refreshed concept. Led by Michelin-starred Chef Fei, the restaurant presents a refined expression of Cantonese culinary elegance interwoven with Teochew heritage, where tradition, precision, and seasonality come together in graceful harmony.

Read more: [SG EATS] Welcoming the Year of Prosperity at Cherry Garden by Chef Fei, Mandarin Oriental, Singapore

Four Chinese New Year set menus are available, with prices starting from S$188++ per person. We experienced the Fortune Menu (S$688++ per person) . A lavish multi-course showcase that embodies Chef Fei’s meticulous craftsmanship and culinary philosophy, one that celebrates clarity of flavour, balance, and deep respect for premium ingredients.

Cherry Garden by Chef Fei- Chef Fei’s Prosperity Toss

The meal opens with Chef Fei’s Prosperity Toss (辉耀狮城捞起), a celebratory Lobster Yu Sheng (龙虾捞起) that sets an auspicious tone for the feast ahead.

Cherry Garden by Chef Fei- Appertisers

A series of elegant appetisers follows each offering a distinct interplay of texture and flavour:

  • Marinated Celtuce with Pickled Chilli (冰爽泡椒脆玉笋) — crisp and refreshing
  • Pan-fried Lotus Root Patties Stuffed with Crab Meat (酿马踏湖蟹肉莲藕饼) — aromatic with delicate sweetness
  • Crispy Roasted Pork Belly (岭南脆皮烧肉) — beautifully roasted with a satisfying crunch
  • Marinated Jellyfish Head with Caviar (鱼子酱琥珀珊瑚花冻) — refined and textural
  • Marinated Cherry Radish with Vinegar and Soy Sauce (椒麻樱桃小萝卜) — light, bright, and palate-cleansing
Cherry Garden by Chef Fei- Geoduck Clam Soup

A comforting highlight arrives in the form of Geoduck Clam Soup, Chaoshan-style (头水紫菜冲浪象拔蚌). Clean and nourishing, the soup reflects the essence of Teochew cuisine, allowing the natural sweetness of the geoduck to shine.

Seafood courses continue the narrative of restraint and finesse. The Charcoal-grilled New Zealand Live Abalone (炭烧新西兰黑金鲍) is smoky and tender, easily standing out as one of the best abalones I’ve had in recent memory.

Cherry Garden by Chef Fei- The Poached Leopard Grouper with Yellow Bean Paste, Chaoshan-style

The Poached Leopard Grouper with Yellow Bean Paste, Chaoshan-style (潮式豆酱煮东星斑) showcases gentle seasoning that honours the integrity of the fish.

Cherry Garden by Chef Fei-Sautéed Diced Wagyu Beef with Sichuan Peppercorn and Chilli

For richer flavours, the Sautéed Diced Wagyu Beef with Sichuan Peppercorn and Chilli (煎烹椒麻雪花和牛粒) delivers depth with restraint. The wagyu is remarkably tender and juicy, soaking up the fragrant peppercorn notes while remaining refined and well-balanced.

Next, we had the Wok-fried Garden Greens (健康时蔬) for balance.

Cherry Garden by Chef Fei- Wok-fried Seafood Fried Rice with Sakura Ebi

The savoury courses conclude with Wok-fried Seafood Fried Rice with Sakura Ebi (樱花虾海鲜炒饭) .Fragrant, comforting, and layered with umami.

Cherry Garden by Chef Fei-Double-boiled Bird’s Nest with Yuzu Honey

Dessert is served in a light yet indulgent finish: Double-boiled Bird’s Nest with Yuzu Honey (柚子风味炖官燕), offering gentle sweetness with a refreshing citrus lift.

With its elegant setting, thoughtful service, and a menu that honours both heritage and modern refinement, Cherry Garden by Chef Fei stands out as a distinguished destination for Lunar New Year celebrations. The Fortune Menu is a graceful showcase of abundance, culinary artistry, and timeless tradition. It is ideal for those seeking a refined and meaningful reunion dining experience this festive season.

Cherry Garden by Chef Fei
Mandarin Oriental Singapore Level 5,
5 Raffles Avenue,
Singapore 039797 
Opening Hours: 12pm – 2:30pm, 6pm – 10pm (Mon – Sun)
Website: https://www.mandarinoriental.com/en/singapore/marina-bay/dine/cherry-garden-by-chef-fei

Follow me on Facebook | Instagram | Tiktok | Telegram for insta updates

[VIETNAM TRAVELS] A Day Trip from Hanoi: Exploring the Beauty of Ninh Binh

[VIETNAM TRAVELS] A Day Trip from Hanoi: Exploring the Beauty of Ninh Binh

Just two hours from the bustling streets of Hanoi lies a place that feels worlds away. Ninh Binh is where time slows, landscapes soften, and nature quietly takes centre stage. Often referred to as “Ha Long Bay on land”, this peaceful province offers a perfect blend of history, culture, and breathtaking scenery. It is ideal for a day escape from the city.

Read more: [VIETNAM TRAVELS] A Day Trip from Hanoi: Exploring the Beauty of Ninh Binh

From limestone karsts rising dramatically above emerald rice fields to tranquil boat rides through ancient caves, Ninh Binh reveals Vietnam at its most poetic.

Alternatively, you can just book a suggested day trip tour with pre-purchased tickets via the proposed itineraries below S$50.00 only.

  1. Tour: Hoa Lu, Trang An, Tam Coc, Hang Mua
  2. Tour: Ninh Binh Day Tour from Ha Noi with bus tour
  3. Tour: Hoa Lu, Tam Coc, and Mua Cave

Our journey began at Hoa Lu, the first capital of Vietnam. Tucked amid mountains and rice fields, this former royal city dates to the 10th century. Walking through the temples dedicated to King Dinh and King Le, you can feel the weight of history in the air — weathered stone courtyards, intricate carvings, and a quiet dignity that speaks of Vietnam’s early dynasties.

It’s a gentle reminder that Ninh Binh is not just about landscapes, but also deep-rooted heritage.

Next came the highlight of the day. The Trang An boat ride, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and an experience that feels almost surreal.

Floating along calm emerald waters, we drifted through a series of caves, limestone tunnels, and open valleys framed by towering karsts. The silence is broken only by the sound of oars gliding through water and the occasional echo from within the caves. It’s peaceful, cinematic, and utterly mesmerising. The kind of beauty that doesn’t ask for attention, but quietly stays with you.

For those willing to work a little harder, Mua Cave Viewpoint offers one of the most iconic views in Ninh Binh. The climb up nearly 500 stone steps is no easy feat, especially under the sun but the reward at the top is worth every step.

From above, the sweeping panorama of winding rivers, patchwork rice fields, and dramatic limestone peaks unfolds below. It’s one of those moments where you pause, catch your breath, and simply take it all in.

Best Time to Visit:

  • Morning hours are ideal — the weather is cooler and the lighting softer for photos.
  • Avoid noon, as the stairs can get slippery and the heat is intense.
  • Visit between May and July to catch the rice fields at their most vibrant green or golden yellow.

If time allows, there’s still so much more to see in Ninh Binh:

  • Tam Coc – Endless rice fields framed by towering cliffs, especially stunning during harvest season
  • Bai Dinh Temple – Majestic, serene, and one of the largest Buddhist complexes in Southeast Asia

Each spot offers a different rhythm, but all share the same sense of calm that defines this region.

Just a short ride from Hanoi, Ninh Binh is the perfect day trip for those craving nature, culture, and a slower pace .All without venturing too far. Whether you’re gliding through caves, standing atop viewpoints, or wandering ancient capitals, this hidden paradise offers a refreshing contrast to city life.

Sometimes, the most memorable journeys are the ones that feel quietly unforgettable and Ninh Binh is exactly that.

Follow me on Facebook | Instagram | Tiktok | Telegram for insta updates

Best Places in Singapore for Digital Nomads

Meta Description: Discover the best places for digital nomads in Singapore. There are
cafés, coworking spots, libraries, and parks, each with practical tips.


Digital Nomad-Friendly Spaces in Singapore
Working remotely in Singapore feels a little like having the city as your co-worker: everything runs smoothly, the Wi-Fi is reliable, and good food is never more than a few steps away. It’s pricier than Bali or Chiang Mai, but the dependability and safety more than make up for it. After spending plenty of days wandering with my laptop, here are the places I’d actually return to for work, play, and a bit of inspiration.


Coworking in the CBD: The Hive Carpenter
When I need a focused, full-day work sprint, The Hive Carpenter is my go-to. The space feels warm and bright, with lots of natural light bouncing off the minimalist décor. I love that the seating ranges from communal tables to private nooks, so you can switch up your environment when your energy dips. And if your remote routine includes keeping an eye on markets or even the occasional forex trading check-in,
you’ll appreciate how stable and reliable the city’s connectivity is. Wi-Fi here is consistently strong, and there are plenty of plugs. Being right next to Clarke Quay MRT makes it an easy commute, and you can grab affordable meals from the nearby hawker stalls at lunchtime. Cost-wise, it’s on the premium side, but
the comfort and convenience justify it for full-day work sessions.


Stylish Coworking in Tanjong Pagar: Our Space
Our Space has a calm, polished vibe that makes you feel instantly productive. I’ve found it particularly good for days when I want a mix of deep work and a little networking. People are friendly without being overly chatty, and the lounge-style seating is surprisingly comfortable for long stretches. The location is ideal: Tanjong Pagar MRT is a short walk away, and the neighbourhood is packed with Korean eateries, cafés, and bakeries. It’s a mid- to high-budget workspace, but it’s great if you prefer a more “grown-up” atmosphere.


Best Café for Long Laptop Days: The Glasshouse At CHIJMES
If you love clean, airy cafés, The Glasshouse will steal your heart. With its floor-to- ceiling glass panels, lush greenery, and soft ambient music, it’s one of the prettiest places to work in the city. I usually come early in the morning when it’s quieter, grab a flat white, and settle into a corner table.

The Wi-Fi is reliable and there’s no strict time limit, but it does get busy at lunch, so I try to be considerate and keep my table tidy. Prices are mid-range for Singapore, and the pastries are worth the splurge. CHIJMES itself is lovely to wander during a break.


Café With Local Flavour in Joo Chiat: Common Man Coffee Roasters
Joo Chiat has a nostalgic, Peranakan charm, and Common Man Coffee Roasters fits beautifully into that vibe. It’s lively without being too noisy, and the long communal tables make it easy to work comfortably for hours.
The brunch crowd can be intense, so I like coming mid-afternoon when it slows down. Wi-Fi is steady, and the coffee is excellent. Joo Chiat is one of my favourite neighbourhoods for nomad life, colourful shophouses, indie boutiques, and hawker stalls all within walking distance. Cost-wise, it’s mid to premium, but the experience feels special.


Quiet Productivity At National Library (Bugis)

Whenever I need absolute silence, I head to the National Library. The upper floors have dedicated study areas where you’ll see students, freelancers, and remote workers quietly typing away. The Wi-Fi is strong, seating is comfortable, and there are plenty of power points. It’s completely free, which is a blessing in a city where café bills can add up quickly.
Bugis MRT is right downstairs, and you’ll find lots of affordable food options in the area. Libraries are such underrated digital-nomad hubs in Singapore, and this one is a gem.


Neighbourhood Library Escape: Tampines Regional Library
If you prefer working outside the city centre, Tampines Regional Library feels like a breath of fresh air. The vibe is relaxed, with cosy corners, good lighting, and good Wi-Fi. I love coming here when I want a slower-paced workday away from the bustle. The library sits within a massive community hub, so you’ve got cafés, food courts, and even a climbing wall nearby. It’s free, comfortable, and great for those wanting a quieter, more local experience.

Work With a Sea Breeze: East Coast Park

Some days, the only thing that keeps me motivated is being outdoors. East Coast Park is perfect for that. I usually bring a fully charged laptop, pick a shaded bench or sit at a beachfront café like East Coast Commune, and chip away at lighter tasks. Wi-Fi can be spotty outdoors, so I stick to work that doesn’t require constant connectivity. The atmospheric waves, cyclists passing, and families enjoying the park always reset my mind. It’s a free, refreshing alternative to indoor spaces.

Green Calm in the City: Singapore Botanic Gardens
So this is not a traditional workspace, but the Botanic Gardens is ideal for an “inspiration day.” I sometimes sit near the Symphony Lake or the quieter paths to journal, plan content calendars, or brainstorm ideas. It’s peaceful, with plenty of benches and open grassy areas.
The Gardens MRT station drops you right at the entrance, and the area is easy to explore on foot. Bring snacks or grab something at the nearby cafés. It’s free, beautiful, and good for balancing screen time with fresh air.


A Colourful Cultural Hub: Kampong Glam
Kampong Glam is one of my favourite neighbourhoods for wandering between work blocks. Think vibrant murals, indie shops, Middle Eastern cafés, and the iconic Sultan Mosque. Many cafés here are laptop friendly in the mornings, though some introduce time limits during busy afternoons.
When I need a mid-day pick-me-up, I grab a teh tarik or explore Haji Lane’s boutiques. The area is lively and full of character, great for people-watching when you’re feeling creatively stuck.

Retro Charm And Café Hopping: Tiong Bahru
I have a soft spot for Tiong Bahru with its art-deco flats, leafy streets, and charming cafés. Places like Tiong Bahru Bakery are perfect for short laptop sessions (though plugs are limited), while smaller indie cafés offer more work-friendly seating. The vibe here is relaxed, almost village-like, yet still central. It’s excellent for days when you want to balance productivity with slow travel. You’ll find affordable hawker
meals at Tiong Bahru Market, which helps offset café spending.


Take It Easy and Enjoy the Options
Singapore may not be the cheapest remote-work destination, but it rewards you with reliability, comfort, excellent infrastructure, and a wonderfully diverse culture. Whatever your preference, cosy cafés, polished coworking spaces, green parks, or culturally rich neighbourhoods, the city has a spot for every kind of workday mood.

Mix and match these places, explore at your own pace, and you can build a rhythm with the city as a digital nomad.

Follow me on Facebook and Instagram for insta updates